Kaizer Chiefs draw Mamelodi Sundowns in Carling Knockout semi-finals

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says his side will benefit from facing Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals as they pursue a place in the final.

The draw has set up a meeting between the two clubs, while ensuring that Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates cannot face one another at this stage of the competition. Pirates will instead play Stellenbosch FC in the other semi-final.

Kaizer Chiefs reached the last four by defeating Siwelele FC 2-1 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday. They were forced to come from behind after conceding first, but Wandile Duba equalised from the penalty spot before Asanele Velebayi scored in the second half to complete the comeback.

Speaking after the quarter-final victory, Da Cruz welcomed the challenge of taking on Masandawana and said matches of that quality were important to the development of his squad.

“We knew we wanted to qualify for the semi-final, and if we qualify we’ll play a big game in the semi-final,” Da Cruz said.

“But we need this type of game because our team needs to grow up, and with this type of game our team will grow up.

“So it’s a very good game for us, and we’ll play this game for sure to qualify for the final.”

Sundowns had already secured their place in the semi-finals on Tuesday, while Orlando Pirates advanced on Saturday with a victory over Sekhukhune United.

Stellenbosch FC completed the line-up after beating AmaZulu 2-1 in Cape Town. Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored a late penalty to send the Maroons through.

Chiefs set for Tshwane trip

Kaizer Chiefs will travel to Tshwane for their semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns. The Premier Soccer League has not yet announced the date, kick-off time or venue for the match.

Loftus Versfeld Stadium is expected to host the game, although that has not been officially confirmed.

The semi-final places were decided after a weekend of quarter-final action that saw all four teams secure their progression by overcoming difficult opponents. Da Cruz’s team will now face one of the strongest tests available in the competition as they attempt to reach the Carling Knockout Cup final.

The other last-four tie will see Orlando Pirates meet Stellenbosch FC, with the Buccaneers having booked their place before Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs completed the remaining fixtures.